Don't end or cap services for those with special needs

(Editor's note: The following account was among those posted on silive.com/autism. If you would like to relate your experience with autism, go to the special silive.com web page.)

By ROBIN COCOZZA SPECIAL TO THE ADVANCE

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- My son was diagnosed with autism in 2002. Our family goes through constant waves of emotions, which continue until today and most probably will continue throughout his life.

These children do not accept change well and their families must adjust their lives around the needs of that child. Siblings, husbands and wives sometimes feel left out. Time is taken away from the family circle enough. Taking time to fight for his needs takes up even more time.

Because of budget cuts, I've seen things done to families and services taken away.

I know first-hand how paperwork gets "held up," rejected or lost. I have been trying to obtain waiver services for my son for over five years now. While he has been eligible for some time, somehow, the paperwork gets lost between the city and state. This has been and continues to be a very time-consuming process. I actually think this is done on purpose so parents just give up!

If it were not for early intervention, ABA therapy, my son would not be as responsive and aware as he is today.

I fear for other children and their development if these services are cut back or based on a sliding scale. It is hard enough for parents to keep up with everyday living, no matter how much they earn!

It is important for the "powers that be" to realize how significant these services are to a developing mind. It is always those who work hard and make slightly over the "cap" who get the short stick!

I am very lucky because my son is a high functioning young man. He is a sweet boy who gives a lot of love back, if it were not for the services he's received to date, I shutter to think how he'd be today.

He has a lot of potential for growth. If his current speech and OT therapies are not provided by the school, I fear I will be unable to afford them independently as a parent.

His continued growth and development are a result of these services. I only see him soaring further with future help. With patience, understanding and the proper services, I foresee him as an active member of society. He will be able to work and possibly have a family. If these services were taken away, I fear for his future.

My heart also goes out to those who are unable to help themselves and need to have assisted living facilities. They deserve not only a good quality of life and to be protected, but stimulation such as work and day programs.

I have heard tear-jerking stories of those who said their first words at the age of 30. If adult services are cut back or not provided, the potential for someone like this person may decrease. There is always potential and we should not turn our back on these beautiful members of society.

I pray those involved in the decision-making process listen to the parents and what is suggested. We are the ones who know best what our children need!

In a world where technology is soaring, there are adaptive technologies now available for these individuals to be more independent grow and learn. These new applications can only help if they are provided the funds to take advantage of these new programs and services.

When prices only go UP, the idea of putting a cap medical, educational or physical assistance can only prohibit individuals such as my son to grow and learn.

I urge those involved with the decision making process to re-evaluate their thoughts on ending or capping any services for those of special needs. I pray they listen!